A template you can use to send an email or letter to your child's doctor to request access to the child's medical records.
Your Name
Your Address
Telephone Number
Email Address
Name of GP Practice
Practice Address
Today's date
Dear [Practice manger’s name or name of GP]
My child [child’s name], born [date of birth] is currently registered as a patient at your practice. She/he lives at [child’s address] with [name of parent].
I am [child’s name] mother/father* and have full parental responsibility. There are no court orders in place that restrict my parental responsibly. I have attached my proof of identification, along with a copy of my child’s birth certificate to prove I have parental responsibly and am the parent of [child’s name]. * delete as appropriate.
I request that you notify me of all important medical information relating to my child, whether via telephone or in writing and using the contact details I have supplied above. I understand and acknowledge that you may require proof of Parental Responsibility and have therefore enclosed proof for your records.
Separated parents with parental responsibility have as much entitlement to information as non-separated parents. The Guidance on Good Practice by the General Medical Council, in particular paragraph 55, states:
“Divorce or separation does not affect parental responsibility and you should allow both parents reasonable access to their children's health records.”
Please make certain that my full contact details are placed on my child’s medical records and that I am contacted regarding anything important, such as new allergies, serious conditions, a change in dietary requirements, change in prescriptions or new prescriptions, required medical procedures etc.
I am making this request in the interests of my child and his/her wellbeing.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation. Please do not hesitate to contact me on the above telephone number, if you have any questions. .
Yours sincerely,
[your name]
